Noisey Roof Rack

[laurieannie]

     not sure if this is the right place for build questions, but here goes.   i have a ford econoline e-150  cargo van and i bought a roof rack for it...the kind that clamps on to the side gutters...and it was so noisy i took it off after one drive.  is there something i can do or am doing wrong that makes this happen?  i don't know if it's wind noise or vibration from the wind but it's awful.  the rack is a good one...adjustable (telescoping) and i caulked it as per the directions.  i really want that rack on there!  can any one help?

 

[longjohn]

If it's just wind noise, do a search for roof rack fairings. They attach to the front of the rack and deflects air over to reduce wind noise. If you have the skill/tools you could make your own to save some $$. 

 

[longjohn]

Hi LA. Did you find out what was causing the noise?

 

[akrvbob]

I've heard of that problem before but I don't understand it. I have ladder racks on my van and I don't get any vibration or wind noise. I mounted mine as far forward as it would go because I think there is less wind forward. Give that a try and see if it helps. <br>Bob

 

[Guest]

Sounds like you could have an open tube or something, my dads old van did that and we filled the tubes with spray foam. Another thing I have seen was foam pipe insulation on the rack to absorb the noise and it also helps to protect the surface of what you are carrying, like a boat canoe etc.

 

[laurieannie]

thanks for the advice all...it is wind noise or wind causing vibration.&nbsp; it is an adjustable (square tube in a larger tube) and i caulked that once it was adjusted, but the noise was awful...especially driving into the wind.&nbsp; now, over the winter, i had the racks inside and i resealed the tubes with plastic dip and painted over that and i wrapped them with cord to break up the wind flo and if it ever stops snowing in south dakota i will put them on and try out the fix!&nbsp; thanks for all the suggestions and sorry it took me so long to get back!

 

[Hariman]

It's amazing how noisy a little tube can be.